FNU becomes the first university to implement the I-Recycle Hub initiative by Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd
The Fiji National University (FNU) formalised a partnership with Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited and Pacific Recycling Foundation to implement the I-Recycle Hub to complement the University’s recycling initiatives.
Formalised through a contract signing at the Nasinu Campus, the I-Recycle Hub will see specially designed bins built by Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd placed at pilot locations at the Derrick Campus in Samabula and Natabua Campus in Lautoka.
The bins aim to promote recycling amongst students, staff, and visitors at the campus and is a visible commitment to FNU’s sustainability programs.
FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said the partnership aligned with the institution’s Strategic and Sustainability Plans commitment to the environment.
“As a major tertiary education provider, it is crucial that FNU is seen to be proactive and leading the fight in undertaking more environmentally-friendly initiatives that are simple yet impactful,” Professor Nabobo-Baba shared.
“As a pilot project, this will be just the starting of our programs and activities that will be undertaken across our campuses to highlight the message of reduce, reuse, and recycle.”
“I note that through the I-Recycle Hub, the University will also be provided with data that will aid in our monitoring and evaluation and shape future activities.”
Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd Director, Joseph Deo said the contract signing was significant as FNU becomes the first tertiary institution to implement the I Recycle Hub Program.
“The signing today marks a promising step towards environmental sustainability where the FNU will use the I-Recycle Hub program to inculcate best practices of waste management and recycling throughout its facilities,” Deo said.
“The I-Recycle Hub programme is a fundamental tool in terms of visible and practical participation in recycling and represents a unique concept that challenges the traditional views of recycling and aims to bring recycling to the very forefront of all operations.”
“This is a historic moment that signifies FNU’s commitment to best practices of waste management and I thank the Acting Vice Chancellor and senior management of FNU for creating space for this signing.”
FNU Capital Projects and Infrastructure Director, Niranjwan Chettiar added that the I-Recycle Hub would be a key step in understanding how effective the initiative is and understanding the behaviour of the recycling bin users.
“A program or an initiative is only a success if you have data to analyse its impacts,” he said.
“The two initial sites will provide possibilities for the University Community to recycle glass bottles and batteries for electronic remotes apart from papers, cardboard, plastic bottles, plastics, and aluminum cans. “
“Through this initiative, apart from providing knowledge through its research and programs, FNU is taking environmental concerns seriously and integrating them into its operations.”
Through this Programme, FNU also wishes to enhance its Student Experience and awareness of waste management and empower students and staff to practice recycling in their households and communities.
The Programme will also allow Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd to train our Student Environment Ambassadors (SEA) based on the industry and other implementation lessons learned.